To help start the conversation about our changing climate with your kids (but not totally freak them out) we’ve compiled a list of our favourite tips:

1) Arm yourself with the facts

So much misinformation about climate change swirls about us these days, it’s more important than ever to consult evidence-based science as the means to sort fact from fiction. Depending on your social circles, you may have heard grown-ups claiming climate change doesn’t exist (don’t worry, we have an article to help you with them, too).

But the fact is that the science overwhelmingly demonstrates that climate change is real—and that it is caused by humans. If you could use a quick primer on climate change science, listen to this excellent episode of the Science Vs podcast.

2) Keep it age appropriate

It can be tricky to control the messages that kids receive about climate change. All they need to do is catch a scary news story on TV or the radio to start asking questions you might not be sure how to answer. Your best bet is to keep it honest, but age appropriate.

Try to focus on the things you can do as a family to help the environment. Discuss using less, recycling, driving less, eating less meat, etc. Talk about why you make the choices you do.

As kids get old enough, start looking for appropriate volunteer opportunities. If your child has a particular interest, try to have the opportunity match it.

3) Spend time in nature and talk about your experiences

Kids will appreciate nature more if they see it in person, so try and help them cultivate a personal relationship with the forests, lakes, streams, and wildlife that live around them.

Try making hiking and camping a part of family vacations, and make efforts to get outside in the green space around your home. Help them to understand that we, as humans, are a part of a natural world and that it is our responsibility to protect the ecosystem we share with so many other species.

4) Read a book together

There are a range of books available that can help you to discuss climate change basics with your kids, all the way up to more advanced solutions. A good book can explain climate change in ways you probably won’t think of on your own. Here are some titles to consider looking for at your local library:

When kids—or adults, for that matter—are scared or worried, it’s crucial that they feel empowered to make change: There is no better salve for anxiety than action. Below are some concrete steps kids can take:

Plant a tree! Trees are our strongest defense against climate change. Plant and nurture a tree in your backyard, school, or community garden or support initiatives to increase green space in your community.

Invite your kids to participate in OhmHours. Taking control of their energy usage and becoming more aware of consumption can help them feel a bit more in control of their environmental footprint. One California family even uses the time to clean up their neighborhood!

If your kids are feeling sad, or angry, or paralyzed with fear—remember that action is the antidote to all those feelings of powerlessness. Kids have power. As a parent or friend to a kid in your community, you can help them develop the skills they will need and help give them a voice.

Curtis gets up every morning to help rewards people for reducing their carbon footprint. His trifecta distills down to: compelling content, engaging user experiences, and rewarding positive climate outcomes.